Psalms 45:10

Authorized King James Version

Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father's house;

Word-by-Word Analysis

שִׁמְעִי

H8085

Hearken

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

בַ֣ת

H1323

O daughter

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

וּ֭רְאִי

H7200

and consider

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וְהַטִּ֣י

H5186

and incline

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אָזְנֵ֑ךְ

H241

thine ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

וְשִׁכְחִ֥י

H7911

forget

to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention

עַ֝מֵּ֗ךְ

H5971

also thine own people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וּבֵ֥ית

H1004

house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אָבִֽיךְ׃

and thy father's

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?